New CBD Area Guide – Spring in the CBD

As Guomao 3 and the CCTV Tower steadily sprout their steely scales, several other developments in the neighborhood have emerged ebulliently from their scaffolding cocoons. To best reap the boons of the Central Business District's completed construction, pick up a copy of Immersion Guides' newly updated 2008 CBD Area Guide, inserted in the April issue of that's Beijing. This detailed map will help you navigate this blossoming Lego-land, whether you crave handcrafted hats or French macaroons.

A spate of opulent new hotels have made a splash in the last few months, with the openings of the Ritz-Carlton, J.W. Marriott, and Wanda Sofitel marking a tidy upswing in the district's overall luxury index. Soon to follow are the Grand Millennium Beijing (April 10) and the Mandarin Oriental (summer 2008), atop the TVCC (Television Culture Centre) – the boot-shaped building that's part of the CCTV Tower complex.

Meanwhile, developments and shopping centers like Wanda Plaza, Shangdu Soho, Shin Kong Place, China Central Place and The Place continue to bulk up with upscale venues. Those who like a coffee with their novels can choose from a trio of sleek bookstore-cafe-restaurants (Neverland Cafe, Trends Lounge and Amigo), while late-night loungers should check out the innovatively designed Song.

This incarnation of the CBD Area Guide – Immersion Guides' first map guide insert of 2008 – introduces our new icon series, designed to be more accurate and user-friendly. We'd love to hear your feedback on our new look!

Next up in May: an expanded, updated, and redesigned Houhai and Nanluogu Xiang Area Guide!